Stuart Pearce wants more young players like Raheem Sterling to shine

England under-21 manager
Stuart Pearce has praised teenage winger
Raheem Sterling and admits he would like to see more young, homegrown talent breaking into Premier League sides like the Liverpool starlet.

Stuart Pearce wants to see more emerging talents like Raheem Sterling (Picture: Getty)

The 18-year-old has been one of Liverpool’s most impressive players during a difficult start to the season for the Anfield giants.

He is now in with a chance of making his under-21 debut in the European Championship play-off against Serbia at Carrow Road tonight, having been part of Roy Hodgson ’s senior squad last month.

And Pearce said: ‘He has had a fantastic start to the season, he has been in our development age groups prior to this season and he had the fortunate opportunity to be with the seniors last time out.

‘He has come in now and has got the opportunity to vie for a place with the Under-21s.

‘He has fitted in really well, he will bring the confidence he has got and that Brendan [Rodgers, Liverpool boss] has given him.’

Sterling, who has been a part of the England set up ever since under-16 level, burst on to the senior scene at Liverpool at the start of the season and instantly impressed with his performances.

‘He has got his tail up at the moment and looks a real handful, we would prefer more young players breaking into their teams,’ added Pearce.

‘But when you look at Liverpool there is [Jonjo] Shelvey, Andre Wisdom has just got in the team recently, Raheem has got into the team.

‘There are one or two players that are being given the opportunity. Jack [Rodwell] has another challenge ahead of him to break into Man City’s team and play consistently.’